Audible traffic signals guide the visually impaired

Visually impaired pedestrians are guided by audible signals at crosswalks around the Plaza Grande in Mérida. Photo: Ayuntamiento

A welcome new sound has been added to the clatter of the Plaza Grande.

The four intersections around the Plaza Grande have been fitted with audible traffic signals to help visually impaired pedestrians cross safely.

The equipment is in compliance with the Pedestrian League’s year-old Charter of Pedestrian Rights, the Ayuntamiento reported. Aside from safety, the technology raises awareness and respect for people with disabilities, they noted.

The city invested over 400,000 pesos on the project.

More “beeps” are planned for other downtown intersections in the future, Mayor Mauricio Vila Dosal said.

The main square is a busy place. Every Friday to Sunday, about 400,000 people pass through on foot or in motor vehicles. During the holidays, that number usually reaches 700,000.

At a media event with the mayor, visually impaired resident Ligia Ordonez said that before the equipment was installed, she would rely on strangers or a policeman, to help her cross the street.

The equipment hasn’t replaced humans. Police officers who will be stationed on each corner, available to assist pedestrians, according to the mayor.

Another blind pedestrian, Victor Sierra, marveled that traveling across the Plaza Grande will no longer be an “aventura.”